Add the egg mixture to the meat mixture along with the cooled vegetables and bread crumbs. Mix with your hands or a wooden spoon until thoroughly combined.

Transfer the mixture to a 9 by 5 by 3-inch loaf pan. Using your fingers or the back of the wooden spoon, smooth the top into a rounded loaf shape.

To make the glaze, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire, and hot sauce, if desired, in a small bowl. Stir to blend. Spread the mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.

Bake the meatloaf for 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Using oven mitts or pot holders, carefully tilt the pan away from you and drain off the excess grease from the pan, An adult should help you here. Be careful, hot grease can really burn. Slice to serve.